MOLECULAR CHAPERONE Meaning and
Definition
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A molecular chaperone refers to a specialized class of proteins that play a crucial role in maintaining cellular homeostasis by assisting in the proper folding, assembly, and transport of other proteins. These chaperones are responsible for preventing protein misfolding, aggregation, or degradation, ultimately ensuring functional protein conformation and preventing cellular damage.
Molecular chaperones act as powerful binders that selectively recognize and interact with unfolded or partially folded proteins. By binding to these target proteins, they prevent their premature folding or unfolding, aiding them to achieve their correct 3D structure. Consequently, molecular chaperones facilitate proper protein folding pathways, promoting the formation of stable, functional proteins while minimizing the formation of non-native conformations.
Additionally, chaperones help in protein transport across cellular membranes and facilitate the assembly of multisubunit protein complexes by mediating proper protein-protein interactions. They are particularly vital during cellular stress conditions, as they prevent the aggregation of damaged proteins and support protein refolding or degradation, depending on the severity of damage.
Molecular chaperones are involved in various cellular processes, including embryonic development, signal transduction, immune response, and protein quality control. They are classified into several families, such as heat shock proteins (HSPs), chaperonins, and nucleotide exchange factors, each having distinct mechanisms of action and cellular localization. These highly conserved proteins play a crucial role in maintaining proteostasis, ensuring the proper functioning of cells and organisms.
Common Misspellings for MOLECULAR CHAPERONE
- nolecular chaperone
- kolecular chaperone
- jolecular chaperone
- milecular chaperone
- mklecular chaperone
- mllecular chaperone
- mplecular chaperone
- m0lecular chaperone
- m9lecular chaperone
- mokecular chaperone
- mopecular chaperone
- mooecular chaperone
- molwcular chaperone
- molscular chaperone
- moldcular chaperone
- molrcular chaperone
- mol4cular chaperone
- mol3cular chaperone
- molexular chaperone
- molevular chaperone
Etymology of MOLECULAR CHAPERONE
The word "molecular chaperone" is derived from two origins: "molecular" and "chaperone".
1. Molecular: The term "molecular" comes from the Latin word "molecula", which means a small mass or a little mass. It is a diminutive form of "moles", which means a mass or a lump.
2. Chaperone: The word "chaperone" originated from the French word "chaperon", which means a hood or a cowl. In medieval times, a chaperon referred to a hooded cloak that protected the head. Later, it came to be associated with the role of a guardian or companion, particularly in contexts such as accompanying young women or maintaining proper conduct during social events.
